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29 March 2024

'UAE has built a successful Emirati model'

Published
By Wam

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said the UAE, under the leadership of the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has moved from the margins to the centre of action, and from waiting, watching and reactions to initiative-taking and pro-activity.

"Our political, economic and cultural presence has imposed itself and is now sought-after and welcomed around the world. The supreme goal in the first decade of our Federation was to promote education, reduce illiteracy. In the fourth decade, we did not only reduce illiteracy to the minimum, but we are also preparing specialised human resources in the most modern and complex disciplines of science," Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said in a statement to 'Dira'a Al Watan' magazine on the 43rd National Day.

"Our sons and daughters have become qualified in nuclear science, smart technology and ultra-advanced technologies. In education, we moved from embracing quantity to embracing quality, our Emiratisation plans are going as scheduled, and we proactively interact with the digital world and its practical manifestations,' Sheikh Mohammed said.

"It was, therefore, only natural that we advanced on the international indices of comprehensive development. For years, our ranking remained within the 'second half of nations', but today we are among the top ten nations. For instance, the UAE retained eighth place internationally, and the first in the Middle East, on the 2014 IMD Annual World Competitiveness Ranking. We also retained the top place internationally in terms of competency of government, lack of bureaucracy, quality of government decisions and quality of air transport, among others.

In addition, the Vice-President added, the UAE has been ranked the 14th happiest country in the world, and was ranked first among the Arab countries in the second United Nations World Happiness Report which was produced by the University of British Columbia's Earth Institute and which covers 156 nations.

"With God's help and through the minds, resolve and ambition of our youth, we will continue to make progress and will write a new history of achievements and excellence that will make our people happier and become a source of good for our nation and the whole world,'' Sheikh Mohammed added.

Regionally, Sheikh Mohammed said the UAE has built an Emirati model in a regional and international environment of confusion, scrambling, wars and conflicts.

"In the past four decades, three wars have broken out in our region and some of these wars went on for years posing threats to the security and stability of all the countries of the region. Thanks to our political approach, our commitment to the principles of peaceful coexistence and good-neighbourlines, the preparedness and efficiency of our armed forces and security services, the unique love between our people and leaders, we have been able to spend those four decades peacefully,'' he remarked.

"During the past four years, the aftermath of the so-called Arab Spring has wreaked havoc on several Arab countries and has adversely affected the Arab region in general where lethal chaos and mayhem prevailed in the countries involved, sectarian and racial divisions disturbed their societies, destructive civil wars are under way in some of these countries to continue to ruin people and land, violence and terrorism are spreading, and terrorist groups that falsely claim that they adhere to Islam have committed crimes that are unprecedented brutal crimes, thus presenting a disfigured image of Islam and Muslims where the bitterest enemies of Islam fail to present a worse image," he noted.

Following is the full text of Sheikh Mohammed's statement

"My dear compatriots,

"May the peace and mercy of Allah be with you.

"I salute and congratulate each and every one of you on the occasion of the 43rd National Day, and thank Allah Almighty for His generosity and for enabling us to achieve success. I do pray to Him to continue to bless us with His graces, to keep us on the Straight Path, strengthen our will and resolve as we seek to build this land and serve His people while we are guided by the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Messenger of God, Prophet Mohammed, Peace and Blessings of Allah be Upon Him.

"On the 2nd December every year, we celebrate the establishment of our Federation and our State. Year after year, we become more inspired by this occasion which becomes ever more cherished in our hearts and strengthens our allegiance to our country and leaders, our respect for the founding fathers and to the icon of our Federation, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

"Today, we remember Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid and their brethren the other rulers and founders and we say to them:

"We did as you wish. The dreams you had for this country have come true in visible and tangible reality.

"Had it not been for your good plants, we would not have been able to reap the fruits and renew what you already had planted in order to achieve glory.

"This country that you departed for Eternity is cherished in our hearts and minds, and we work around the clock to achieve development and protect its security and stability so as to keep it ever glorious.

"Your Emirati sons and grandchildren continue to keep their allegiance and commitment to the morals and values of allegiance and belonging, with their hearts filled with love for their leader, the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

"I say to my brother and friend, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed: We dedicate this National Day to you. You already achieved the glory of the beginning and the early days of giving and building. You are one of the makers of 2nd December as you worked alongside the late Sheikh Zayed, and were his right-hand man when the building of our State started. When you became President ten years ago, you were faithful to Sheikh Zayed's legacy as you preserved and developed it and even added to it. You made the accumulation of achievements meaningful, enabled fruitful continuity and presented a exemplary model for the connection between generations.

"During your current reign, the UAE is making leaps and bounds in civilisational development. Your national action programme is achieving the empowerment of people in all spheres.

"Dear Emirati men and women,

"I know that you are overwhelmed with the feelings of happiness, pride and glory as Emiratis who are closely tied to their country and who stand by their leaders with whom you were able, over the past 43 years, to achieve a unique model for development that has won the recognition and appreciation of all.

"The period of 43 years is no more than one passing moment in the history of peoples and nations, but for us it is a vast sea and a long eventful epoch. For we measure years, not by days, weeks and months, but by the achievements that speak for themselves. Suffice it to say that these achievements can best be reflected by the stature our State has achieved, and the role it is playing in the Gulf region, the Arab region and the whole world.

"Where were we? Where are we now?

"We have moved from the margins to the centre of action, and from waiting, watching and reactions to initiative-taking and and pro-activity.

"Our political, economic and cultural presence has imposed itself and is now sought-after and welcomed around the world.

"The supreme goal in the first decade of our Federation was to promote education, reduce illiteracy. In the fourth decade, we did not only reduce illiteracy to the minimum, but we are also preparing specialised human resources in the most modern and complex disciplines of science.

"Our sons and daughters have become qualified in nuclear science, smart technology and ultra-advanced technologies.

"In education, we moved from embracing quantity to embracing quality, our Emiratisation plans are going as scheduled, and we proactively interact with the digital world and its practical manifestations.

"During the first decade of our Federation, we were dreaming of making up for what we missed out on and catching up with the sisterly nations that were ahead of us in terms of progress and civilisation. Now in the fourth decade of the Federation, the sky is the limit for our achievements and therefore we not only embraced the best international practices, but we are also emiratising them, adding to them and achieving excellence in them.

"It was, therefore, only natural that we advanced on the international indices of comprehensive development. For years, our ranking remained within the 'second half of nations', but today we are among the top ten nations. For instance, the UAE retained eighth place internationally, and the first in the Middle East, on the 2014 IMD Annual World Competitiveness Ranking. We also retained the top place internationally in terms of competency of government, lack of bureaucracy, quality of government decisions and quality of air transport, among others.

"In addition, the UAE has been ranked the 14th happiest country in the world, and was ranked first among the Arab countries in the second United Nations World Happiness Report which was produced by the University of British Columbia's Earth Institute and which covers 156 nations.

"We are interested in comprehensive developments indices because, first, they are internationally recognised and because they are produced by highly-credible international institutes; second, they help governments in addressing the weaknesses and failures in the performance of some developmental sectors and relating activities; third, we seek the top places but in this quest we never sought fame or record numbers or to just outrun others. Rather, we were racing with ourselves, and we engage in a race in order to achieve the best international practices, to achieve excellence in order to serve our people and to improve the quality of life in our country. We engage in races in order to ensure the sustainability of overall development in our country and to rise to the responsibilities towards our sons and daughters, grandchildren and the coming generations and to enable them to live in dignity and prosperity in our beloved country in which citizens enjoy security, stability and contentment.

"The valuable lesson that we have learnt from the debate on the progress and backwardness of nations is that a state that does not seek to attain the top place will not be able to retain the place or ranking that it achieved. Rather, it regresses and then become too fatigued to continue its journey and eventually stops in the middle of the race.

"Therefore, we have no choice but to seek the first place and work at double speed if we are to retain our advanced rankings on the international competitiveness indices.

"What will we do as we look forward to attaining the first place by 2021 when we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of our State?

"Our answer to that is well-known and it has been tested in the Emirati model of political, economic, social, human and cultural development. It is the model to which you Emiratis, the sons of Khalifa and grandchildren of Zayed, contributed, and it is what enables us to attain our current stature. It is rich in self-experiences and the invaluable learned lessons. We only have to look forward confidently and with determination to consolidate the foundations on which we built this model, deepen our social cohesion, improve the quality and perfection of our work, open wider avenues for innovative, proactive and creative people, bolster the foundations of security and stability, be aware of the changes in the region and the rest of the world, and keep up with the rising global trends in economy, science, telecommunications and technology.

"Dear Emirati men and women,

"We managed to build our Emirati model in a regional and international environment of confusion, scrambling, wars and conflicts.In the past four decades, three wars have broken out in our region and some of these wars went on for years posing threats to the security and stability of all the countries of the region. Thanks to our political approach, our commitment to the principles of peaceful coexistence and good-neighbourlines, the preparedness and efficiency of our armed forces and security services, the unique love between our people and leaders, we have been able to spend those four decades peacefully.

"During the past four years, the aftermath of the so-called Arab Spring has wreaked havoc on several Arab countries and has adversely affected the Arab region in general where lethal chaos and mayhem prevailed in the countries involved, sectarian and racial divisions disturbed their societies, destructive civil wars are under way in some of these countries to continue to ruin people and land, violence and terrorism are spreading, and terrorist groups that falsely claim that they adhere to Islam have committed crimes that are unprecedented brutal crimes, thus presenting a disfigured image of Islam and Muslims where the bitterest enemies of Islam fail to present a worse image.

"We have been following the developments in the Arab Spring countries and have countered with determination all the attempts to damage our security and stability. We are lying in wait for all those planning or even thinking of hurting us. At the same time, we are performing our duty of defending our straight religion, helping sisterly countries to overcome difficult circumstances, and look forward to bringing to an end all the abnormal situations in those countries in order to enable them to apply themselves solely to development and improving the quality of life of their citizens.

"Dear Emirati men and women,

"I am satisfied with the achievements we made last year, and look forward with hope to the next year. Last year, we improved our position in keeping up with the rising global trends that determine the future statures of states, their lifestyles, nature of business, performance in government and private sectors, both in terms of services and production.

"The most outstanding of global trends is the digital trend which has consolidated the weight of knowledge at the forefront of economic fundamentals and the authority of human capital that produces knowledge over these fundamentals.

"We keep pace with these developments through our educational development plans, the shift from e-government to smart government, introducing necessary amendments to the regulations of relating activities, unleashing the potentials of the creative and innovative youth and providing incubators for these potentials.

"Furthermore, we are going ahead to implement our plans for contributing to the electronic infrastructure of space industry, becoming producers and contributors to production, after being consumers. Our human resources, who accounted for 70 per cent of the design and manufacturing of DubaiSat-2 which launched into orbit in 2013, are now working alone on the design and manufacturing of KhalifaSat which will be a 100 per cent Emirati satellite.

"In furthering our efforts to keep pace with this rising global trend, we set up the UAE Space Agency and an Emirati-led project to send an unmanned probe to Mars by 2021, which will represent the Arab and Islamic entry into the era of space exploration. Those who don't reserve their places in space today will not be able to retain their places on Earth tomorrow.

"As for renewable energy production, our country does not only keep pace with this rising global trend but is also taking part in its leadership. The UAE today is a leader in future energy, and its capital, Abu Dhabi, is the renewable energy capital of the world and the prestigious centre for clean energy research and relating activities.

"We have exceptional interest in the digital revolution because it is the pivot around which all global rising trends revolve. The interconnection and overlapping of business, production, services, software, innovation, telecommunications have become major realities in our life that are expanding day after day and gaining wider influence in all fields and trends due to the exponential growth of the volume of data available to humans at record speeds, the diversity of means of access to, and ease of use of, these data.

"Today, ten billion objects are interconnected through the Internet of Things (Internet of Everything), from simple devices to huge factories, and from spacecraft to submarines in the deeps of the oceans. Three billion people have access to the internet, including two billion users of mobile phones. In our Arab region, 135 million people use the internet and 95 million people, of which more than two thirds are young, use social networking sites. This usage (in the Arab region) is growing at higher than the global average growth rate. It is even the highest such speed of growth in the world.

"These figures are not without significant indications as they entail political, economic, cultural and social obligations and maturities that will have governments forced to incorporating them into their strategies and current and future plans.

"We have been fully aware at an early stage of the obligations and maturities of the digital age. These have been a major pivot for our plans, work and projects.

"Thank God we were at the forefront of countries keeping pace with the ICT revolution since the early signs of its emergence into existence and, at an early stage, we set up its infrastructure and launched the region's first e-government, spreading its applications in our society and all sectors of production and services. This is what enabled us to powerfully break through into the digital world and to positively and confidently interact with all the other global rising trends.

"Dear Emirati men and women,

"Despite all the achievements that we have made, the stature that we have attained for our country and society, and despite all the excellence and high competitiveness on the global level, we are still at the beginning of our journey. In order to be able to continue our success, to develop it and to build further success in this digital age on it, using the many opportunities that this world is offering, we will have to put all our senses on the alert, mobilise all our capabilities, develop our institutions and legislation, instil and promote the culture of innovation and creativity in our culture on which we should bring up our children, and adapt our education and teaching methods to turn our schools and universities to incubators of innovators and creative people.

"With God's help and through the minds, resolve and ambition of our youth, we will continue to make progress and will write a new history of achievements and excellence that will make our people happier and become a source of good for our nation and the whole world.

"On the 43rd National Day, I again extend my regards to the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates and my brother  General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and pray to Allah, The All-Hearing and The Supreme-Answerer to enable us to do what pleases Him, protect our country and spare us from all that is evil. Amen.

"May the peace and mercy of Allah be with you."

Mohammed honours UAE’s 43 pioneers to mark 43rd National Day

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has emphasised that the UAE, led by thePresident His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has global ambitions to be the first in the world in innovation, economy, tourism, energy and other sectors, and the most important matter for the UAE leadership is to be the first in ensuring happiness for the UAE people.

This came when Sheikh Mohammed granted the Medal of Top Emiratis to 43 Emirati persons, who have had a head start in various educational, health, economic, military, sports and other fields in the country, in addition to a group of Emirati achievers in the fields of distinguished innovations, inventions and initiatives.

The ceremony was attended by Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, and other ministers, where Sheikh Mansour received a Medal of Top Emiratis on behalf of "The Mother of the Emirates".

Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Mohammed said that, "The late Sheikhs Zayed and Rashid were the first to state that they would do well not be satisfied without achieving first place and they noted that the UAE people love the first rank."

Commenting on honouring of Sheikha Fatima, Sheikh Mohammed said, "She has set an example in the women empowerment field through developing their capacity building to keep pace with the international development in this respect. Through her perseverance she supplied the country with efficient women cadres capable of contributing effectively to the UAE's nation-building".

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his satisfaction about the volume of societal participation in nomination of 137, 000 candidates over 15 days.

"The strength of the Union lies in the strength of Emiratis. And the future of the Union depends on excellence of Emiratis. The excellence of Emiratis in all fields is the key to success among other nations," he added, noting that the honorary occasion is to highlight the success of outstanding Emiratis so as to set an example for others.

He added that the UAE ambitions to score top positions could not be attained unless each Emirati youth, ministry, department and institution aspire to score top position. Sheikh Mohammed underlined that the future of UAE will be realised by top achievers equipped with the excellence and innovation.

The ceremony was also attended by Lt. General Misbah bin Rashid Al Fattan, Director of the Office of the Vice President, Khalifa Saeed Suleiman, Director- General of the Department of Protocol and Hospitality in Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed honoured 43 Emirati personalities by awarding them Emirati Top Achievement Medals. Their names will be archived in the UAE memory in the Government Year Book.

The list of honorees of year 2014 includes the following:

The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Nahyan and the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.

First Emirati college graduate: Sheikh Mohammed bin Saeed bin Ghobash.

First Emirati woman teacher in the formal education: Sheikha Na'ama bin Majid Al Qasimi.

First Emirati woman teacher in the formal education: Amina Salim Al Hajri.

First Emirati Doctor with university degree: Dr. Ahmed Kadhim.

First Emirati martyr: Corporal Salem Suhail Khamis.

First Emirati to join the Armed Forces: Colonel Mohammed Saleh Al Qayedi.

First Emirati woman to join the Armed Forces: Brigadier Doctor Asmaa Sultan Al Mughairi.

First Emirati university professor: Dr. Rashid Abdul Rahman Al Saeed.

First Emirati woman to hold a PhD Degree: Dr. Aisha Al Sayar.

First Emirati Editor -in-Chief of a daily newspaper after the establishment of the Union: Khalid Mohammed Ahmed.

First Emirati radio anchor : Hessa Al Asali.

First Chairman of Supreme Federal Court : Abdul Wahab Abdoul.

First Emirati woman to join the judiciary: Kholood Joua'an Al Dhahiri.

First Ambassador of the UAE after the establishment of the Union: Dr. Ali Al Humaidan.

First Emirati woman ambassador: Sheikha Najla Al Qasimi.

First Emirati policeman: Mohammed Saeed Buhumaid.

First Emirati novel writer: Rashid Abdullah Al Nuaimi.

First Emirati banker: Essa Saleh Al Gurg.

First elected woman to the membership of Federal National Council: Amal Abdullah Al Qubaisi.

First Emirati national team coach: Juma Ghareeb.

First Emirati to win the Olympic gold medal: Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Hasher Al Maktoum.

First Emirati nurse: Hussein Qa'ed.

First Emirati woman photographer: Sheikha Al Suwaidi.

First Emirati to win the global medal in the para-Olympic: Humaid Hassan Murad Al Mazem.

First Emirati woman to win the Olympic medal: Sheikha Maitha bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
First captain of the national team: Ahmed Essa.

First Emirati international referee: Abdullah Al Sai.

First Emirati inventor: Saqr Majid Al Marri.

First Emirati child selected among eight most genius children in the world according the CNN: Adib Suleiman Al Baloushi.

First Emirati nuclear engineer: Amani Al Hosni.

First director of project for launching the UAE satellite: Salem Humaid Al Marri
 
First Emirati to invent artificial livre from hollow fibre in the world: Professor Ali Al Naqbi.

First Emirati who invented DNA male profile for criminal use in the world: Rashid Hamdan Al Ghaferi.
First Emirati woman to make a genetic map for prevention and early detection of diabetes: Dr. Habiba Al-Saffar.

First Emirati woman to invent a device to introduce catheter tube through a vein for crucial heart operations: Dr. Hawaa Al Mansouri.

First Emirati to invent a mechanism for  generation of biofuels with industrial quantities using genetically-modified algae: Ahmad Al Harethi.    

First international Emirati robotics expert: Mohammed Mattar Al Shamsi.

First Emirati inventor to win gold medals at the World Inventions Exhibition: Ahmed Majan.

First Emirati to invent the automatic detection of toxic gases in the oil and gas fields through thermal reading: Dr. Mohammed Marzouqi.

First blind Emirati to obtain a PhD: Dr. Ahmed Al Omran.

First Emirati to score Asian achievement in special need sports: Thuraya Ahmed Zaabi.

First policewoman: Salem Khamis Al Hamedh.

Mohammed urges new ambassadors to be best models for their country

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has urged the newly appointed ambassadors to fraternal and friendly countries to be the best envoys of their country and translate the confidence reposed in them by their leadership into deeds and achievements in the field of developing the UAE's political, cultural and economic ties with nations to which they have been posted, for the benefit of the UAE and its peoples.

Sheikh Mohammed made these remarks when five new ambassadors were sworn in before him in the presence of Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs and Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister.

The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Mushrif Palace in Abu Dhabi, was also attended by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, Dr. Anwar bin Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Juma Al Za'abi, Deputy Minister for Presidential Affairs, Lt. General Misbah bin Rashid Al Fattan, Director of the Office of the Vice-President, Mohammad Mir Abdullah Al Raisi, Acting Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Khalifa Saeed Suleiman, Director- General of the Department of Protocol and Hospitality in Dubai, and a number of senior officials at the ministry.

Earlier, the UAE Ambassador to France, Mo'dhed Mughair Al Khaili; the UAE ambassador to Qatar, Saleh Mohamed bin Nasra Al Amri; the UAE ambassador to Armenia, Jassim Mohammed Mubarak Al Qasimi; the UAE Ambassador to Thailand, Saif Abdullah Mohammed Al Shamsi; and the UAE ambassador to New Zealand, Khalifa Al Mazrouei, took the oath before Sheikh Mohammed. They pledged to respect the constitution and laws of the country and keep the country's interest as their top priority.

Sharjah Ruler's statement on the ocassion of 43rd UAE National Day

His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has congratulated the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Supreme Council Members, Their Highnesses the Rulers of the Emirates, and the UAE people, on the 43rd National Day anniversary.

He praised Emirati youth for enrolling in the National Service to safeguard the country's security, stability and interests.

"With pride and awe, we express our high opinion of the youth as they enroll en masse in the National Service to safeguard the country's security and stability. This reflects their love of the homeland and loyalty to the leadership," Sheikh Sultan said.

The full text of the statement follows:

"We greet the UAE people today on the 43rd National Day anniversary. This year's occasion comes at a time the country is looking forward to a promising future. Today the National Service law presents a new fruit of the Union to Emirati youth who enroll in the National Service to serve their country in honour as strong countries do.

"As long as we build our future and dreams on Emirati youth, we harness all our capabilities and potential to develop and provide decent living conditions for them. They reflect the prestigious image of the country in terms of education, hard work and responsibilities that the leadership puts on them.

"With pride and awe, we express our high opinion of Emirati youth as they enroll en masse in the National Service to safeguard the country's security and stability. This reflects their love of the homeland and loyalty to the leadership.

"The realisation of the Union dream through our will and determination is the real embodiment of strength, and the real challenge is to preserve this dream. We have to sustain the Union and its achievements and our love of the country and people.

"Daily, we ensure our Union is on the right track, and we preserve our achievements, strength and future through our national cohesion.

"On this dear occasion, I congratulate the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the Supreme Council Members, Their Highnesses Rulers of the Emirates, on the 43rd National Day anniversary.

"I commend the UAE Armed Forces on this occasion, which, thanks to the shrewd vision of the UAE President and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, has become a safety valve of the nation to safeguard its interests and national rights," said Dr. Sheikh Sultan.

RAK Ruler's statement on UAE's 43rd National Day Anniversary

His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, has congratulated the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Supreme Council Members, Their Highnesses the Rulers of the Emirates, and the UAE people, on the 43rd National Day anniversary.

Here is the full text of the statement:

"Sons and daughters, courageous officers and soldiers of our Armed Forces, I greet you on the occasion of the country’s 43rd National Day and also greet your loyalty and commitment to your duty towards our beloved country. Today, we celebrate an anniversary very precious to our hearts as it represents a landmark in the history of this beloved country which will remain a symbol of the unity of our land and represents also the aspiration of the leadership and the will of the UAE people.

"It is the 43rd anniversary of the establishment of the UAE. During the event, we remember the founder of the Union, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

"Sheikh Zayed’s far sighted and exceptional leadership were the first factors for the establishment of the Union, that resulted in the establishment of a federal and modern country and one of the fastest growing countries in the cultural and human development fields.

"I also pay tribute to the founding fathers who realised from the beginning that they have joint destiny, that the unity of the land and the future, as well as leadership, should be under one flag.

"The homeland carries all means of progress, security and decent life for Emiratis in the light of achieving justice, equality, brotherhood and tireless work, as well as provision of aid to underprivileged people, distressed and fraternal peoples.

"Dear Emiratis, thanks to the wise leadership of the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan,  His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and Supreme Council Members, Their Highnesses Rulers of the Emirates, the UAE, through the past decades, could build a cultural country that has achieved a lot at the global level as a regional hub at all walks of life.

"On this occasion, we renew our loyalty to the symbol of our unity and leader of the development march, the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who followed the legacy of the founding fathers and contributed with his sharp vision and wise leadership to establish factors of national values as well as harnessing the federal country’s assets and gains for the benefit of the homeland and UAE citizens, within a prudent policy that puts the Emiratis as a base of development and loyalty.

"The empowerment policy that has been adopted by the leadership, aimed to involve UAE citizens in the cultural renaissance, represents the reality and based on the idea that says that building the nation is in the hands of the UAE citizens.

"The UAE affirms this truth as we see the contribution of Emiratis in the private and government sectors, in addition to their tireless work to achieve the country’s overall renaissance. We can also see their contributions in the international arenas as they have occupied prestigious places in international organisations as they embody the pioneering role of the country in the global events. All these contributions are a result to the wise policies of Sheikh Khalifa towards Emiratis.

"As a result of that, we express our loyalty, appreciation and gratitude to Sheikh Khalifa on the occasion of the celebrations of the UAE’s 43rd National Day anniversary.

"Dear Emirati youth, as we read the stories of the achievements of the federal government, we see the progress that has been made by UAE citizens, who were and still the cornerstone of building the country to achieve a prosperous future as well as promoting principals of pride for all Emiratis.

"Today, we have the right to be proud of what the country has attained in its 43rd National Day anniversary as well as the gains of the overall renaissance in a short period of time, all these contributions are based on our national identity, deep-rooted Arab heritage, as well as a commitment to  federal principals. We also believe that the Union is our destiny as it is for the coming generations. We have only to choose to attain security, stability, progress and welfare, to support our federal country and wise leadership in order to address challenges and obstacles so as to preserve our national gains to position the country among the advanced countries.

"Today, the whole world is looking at the UAE experience, as founded by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and the relentless work of UAE citizens, and sees one of the most successful experiences, a role model in the international arena, from which people glean the successful march of a nation that believes in the unity and cohesive principles between the leadership and people to achieve progress.

"Brothers and sisters, our brave soldiers and officers of the Armed Forces, on this occasion, out of my deep belief in the role of the Armed Forces, I hail its role as it is represents the strong shield of the country. We should also remember their sacrifices and pioneering role in the field of preserving the country’s successful federal experience as well as their role to preserve international security and stability as well as national gains, thanks to the role of General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, who has worked on promoting the UAE Armed Forces level and its preparedness to discharge its missions.

"Finally, I congratulate the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and wish him good health, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and Supreme Council Members, Their Highnesses Rulers of the Emirates, and the people of the UAE on the occasion of the celebrations of UAE’s 43rd National Day anniversary, praying to the Almighty to grant permanent security, stability, progress and welfare under the wise leadership," concluded Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi

Ajman Ruler's statement on the ocassion of 43rd National Day

Speaking to 'Shield of the Nation' ('Dira'a Al Watan') magazine on the occasion of the UAE 43rd National Day, His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, has emphasised the UAE’s achievements over the last four decades of the Union, saying that the country has achieved the impossible, and made every citizen proud to be a part of this homeland and honoured by its leadership.
 
The statement in full is as follows:
 
"I am pleased to extend my sincere congratulations, best wishes and blessings to the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to his brother,  His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of  the UAE and Ruler of Dubai,Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and to the people of the UAE, asking Allah to keep the memory of our National Day alive and to continue fulfilling our people’s wishes through progress and prosperity.
 
"This year's celebration coincides with a very special and precious occasion, which is the passing of 10 years since the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan's accession to power. During this era, the UAE’s political, economic, development, and social position has strengthened and gained a positive reputation as a progressive nation which provides good to all countries around the world, and provides a refined role model for the region and the Arab and Muslim world.
 
"Every citizen and resident in this country is proud of the values and principles which characterise the personality of Sheikh Khalifa, and understands the reasons why he occupies a special position in people’s hearts. His Highness is known for his robust interest in caring for and being attentive to the affairs of his citizens, to provide them with a decent life and stability for their families.
 
"We ask Allah to preserve our President’s good health and happiness, and our people's continued progress and prosperity. On this occasion, we renew our pledge to our leader, to continue the march of the Union, which began on December 2, 1971.
 
"Forty three years has created the glory of a nation led by an unforgettable leader who laid the foundations of the UAE’s cultural renaissance, through a march that has been full of achievements, both nationally and internationally, and which has manifested itself in various ways. This great achievement resulted from a man who was given an empowered capacity to lead a people’s renaissance and the emerging of a nation, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
 
"Sheikh Zayed led the UAE’s procession of progress and renaissance with the tact of a commander who is loyal to his people and with the kindness that a loving father gives to his children. His generous giving will always be remembered, and we can never do enough to repay or thank him. Zayed will be proud enough of what he was able to achieve through his wisdom and that of his brothers, Their Highnesses the Rulers -  one of the most important accomplishments of the last century. Through his faith, he was able to maintain this experience, and emphasise its development for the benefit of the UAE people and the pride of the Arab nation.
 
"What has been achieved under the Union is clear to see, which is that in the past four decades, the UAE has achieved the impossible and made every citizen proud to be a part of this homeland and honoured by its leadership.
 
"That is why National Day has become the most important event in the history of the UAE since its inception, which warrants large-scale celebrations dedicated to reinforcing the concept of identity and belonging in the hearts of both the young and old.
 
"The record achievements that our country has made in urbanisation, progress and every other level has been reflected in its sophisticated and prosperous economy, political stability, powerful administrative oversight and advanced productivity. The whole country has moved towards civilisation, modern institutions, education, health, social and cultural development, providing citizens in all the emirates with equal development and a high level of services in all areas.
 
"We are happy that National Day is being celebrated at a time the UAE is enjoying a strong and healthy economy. The UAE has stood out through a number of economic projects which led the country to significant economic growth over the years. Dubai’s economic growth has been further boosted after it won the bid to host Expo 2020. The UAE continues to offer the most attractive environment for investors and plays host to many exhibitions, visited by millions of people every year.
 
"Human development continues to be a vital investment for the future of the UAE, with its emphasis on a cultural and civilisational identity of a country with Islam rooted in its history and constitution. Coupled with that is the security which is widespread throughout the UAE in a way which seldom exists in another country, even with it being a hub of many different nationalities, and providing citizens and residents alike with comfort and peace of mind. The UAE’s security and stability reflects a positive image internationally.
 
"After the establishment of the Union, the provision of health services became a priority policy of the country, clearly stated in the constitution, which considers access to healthcare as a sacred right for all, whether in the inner city or remote areas. Our country has seen the establishment of modern hospitals that are just as efficient as some of the world's best, and the Ministry of Health has been able to develop older institutions and provide them with superior expertise, modern tools, modern systems, technical and administrative personnel, laboratories and specialised centres for disease.
 
"Our country occupies a distinctive and important position in the world, in the midst of events taking place in the world, especially in the Arab and Islamic world. The UAE remains a broker of goodness and love, peace, harmony and friendship among nations, to achieve Arab solidarity and Islamic reunion. It has been a loud, clear and steady voice in all platforms to defend the rights of Arabs and Muslims.
 
"We must also point out the position that women have reached in the UAE, participating side by side with men in all fields. Women in the UAE have the biggest percentage of membership in parliament in the Arab world. There is no doubt that Emirati women have been able to occupy high positions in the media and cultural fields which is evident to all through their participation both locally and internationally, representing the country in various cultural fora and media, demonstrating intellectual awareness and an ability to take on tasks and responsibility.
 
"Since the inception of the Union, women in the UAE have occupied a unique position. This has helped them to  participate in all areas and to enter most fields of employment. The Emirati woman has proved her efficiency and fortitude, and her ability to deliver, and, thanks to the support of the leadership, she is more educated, with a sense of belonging to the country which has given her so much. The high level of prestige she has attained is acknowledged by scientific and literary Arab and regional bodies.
 
"Welcoming a new year of the Union of our nation reflects the continuity of the evolutionary process and progress. We will always look forward to achieving successes, preserving our achievements and will wish for our country to reach the number one position. This will come from allegiance to the wise leadership, dedication to the nation and maintaining the principles and traditions that we inherited from our parents and grandparents. This unity, togetherness, solidarity and upholding of the values of good work ethics and productivity, will enable the process to continue, no matter how big the challenges are.
 
"Again, I extend my sincere congratulations to the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, calling for Allah to sustain him with the blessing of health and wellness, and I wish our dear people further progress and prosperity under the wise leadership of our President, " said Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid.

Fujairah Ruler's statement on the occasion of the 43rd National Day

His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah, in a statement to ''Dira'a Al Watan'' magazine on the occasion of the 43rd National Day, has said that, "The celebration is a day to recall the memory of those who laid the foundations of cohesion and cooperation and worked hard, with dedication, to build the union as a solid base on which we can now stand, to meditate on all the events experienced by the union and on how we started with the simplest models of growth to reach the finest development models."

The following is the full statement of Sheikh Hamad to 'Dira'a Al Watan' magazine:

 "Today the United Arab Emirates celebrates its forty third National Day, observing  the unprecedented achievements that it has accomplished, thanks to its wise leadership, and its social cohesion. This has made Union Day a great occasion on which to recall the outstanding efforts made by the founding fathers, and to work to enhance the concept of the union in every achievement we accomplish with every new day.

"The great achievements accomplished by the United Arab Emirates, its good reputation and the prominent stature held by the country amidst the nations, encourage us all to work harder, in order to preserve the gains and to entrench the Spirit of the Union, giving us confidence that we are on the path of leadership with excellent steps and a confident and clear vision.

"On this blessed day, I extend my sincere congratulations and blessings to the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,  Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates and to the loyal people of the UAE.

"On the second of December, we remember those who laid the foundations of cohesion and cooperation and who worked hard, with dedication, to build the union as a solid base on which we can now stand, to meditate on all the events experienced by the union and on how we started with the simplest models of growth to reach the finest development models in building our human capital and our urban infrastructure.

"This day is a memory fresh in our minds, from generation to generation,  a day in which we take  pride in our experience of unity, wherever we are. It is also a day to renew our covenant and to reaffirm ourloyalty, to continue following the approach of the founders of the union, under the leadership of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to complete what they began and to maintain the success story that we have achieved in just few years of work and dedication.

"Wherever we are, we can notice the UAE's distinctive achievements and successes in various fields, helping the country to assume its prominent stature, both developmentally and culturally, among developed countries. These achievements can be attributed to the UAE's wise leadership as they follow the approach of the founding leader, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

"Our aspirations and ambitions for the development of our country are limitless; we are dedicated to continuous development, deepening the concept of sustainable development, a strategy set up by His Highness the Head of State, focused on the implementation of the overall development plans and investment in human resources. To achieve success, this strategy requires great effort in the building of human capital and in the provision of education to all, so as to nurture generations who are conscious and able to keep pace with the challenges of the modern era. Education has become an urgent necessity to develop the homeland and its citizenry.

"We are determined to be active in the international community by following a foreign policy that continuously strengthens the UAE's prestigious international stature, out of its sincere desire and belief to establish the principles of right and justice, to strive to build bridges of communication and cooperation that will support the achievement of international peace and security and to spread the elements of a feeling of closeness and friendship among nations and peoples.

"In conclusion, I ask Allah to bless our beloved homeland with pride and stamina. May He grant Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan health and wellbeing and have mercy on the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan," concluded Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed.

UAQ Ruler's statement on the occasion of 43rd National Day

His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu'alla, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Qaiwain, stressed in a statement to ''Dira'a Al Watan' magazine on the occasion of the 43rd National Day, that  the wise leadership of the UAE has reinforced the foundations of the Union laid by the founding leaders led by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and later the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan followed in the same footsteps to promote the stature of the UAE to an advanced position at Arab and international levels, ensuring satisfaction, happiness and prosperity and raising the standard of living of its citizens.

The following is the full statement of Sheikh Saud to 'Dira'a Al Watan' magazine on the 43rd National Day anniversary:

"Under the wise leadership of the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE leadership and people celebrate the 43rd National Day, renewing their promise and loyalty to the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa to move forward in the march of welfare and giving, expressing our pride in his wise policies which have put the UAE in the forefront of the Arab world and won it respect and appreciation internationally.

"Our wise leadership reinforced the foundations of the Union, laid by the founding leaders led by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and followed in their footsteps by the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to pomote the stature of the UAE to advanced positions at Arab and international levels, ensuring satisfaction, happiness and prosperity and raising the standard of living of its citizens.

"Sheikh Khalifa boosted the foundations of the Union by bringing efficiency to policies, plans and programmes with his initiatives contributing in achieving the hopes and aspirations of the UAE people. Sheikh Khalifa also stressed that the human being is the goal of development in all fields.

"In confirmation of that, Sheikh Khalifa featured among the most influential leaders and decision-makers of the world in 2014, in accordance with a policy that adopted wisdom in leadership, excellence in performance and achievement, interest in human development, strengthening economy and ensuring the rights of the individual, promotion of security and tranquility, supporting humanitarian programmes inside and outside the State, consolidating Arab and international security and stability, renouncing terrorism and vowing to drain its resources, and providing help and assistance to the peoples of the world in various fields.

"On all occasions, our loyal people expressed their firm belief in their wise leadership, and swore to be loyal towards the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. They emphasised the depth of responsibility, of belonging and loyalty to this nation and to maintain its security and stability, preserve its achievements through responding to the leadership’s call to perform national service, expressing their readiness to defend the honour of the nation.

"Recent years have witnessed remarkable development and creative initiatives approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,  Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The indicators of performance rose in all initiatives launched by  Sheikh Mohammed, whether through moderation of strategies for all Ministries and federal bodies or through qualified national cadres, who have been able to register excellence in leadership and implementation in accordance with the highest international standards of performance.

"In the economic sphere, all Emirates of the State formed diversity in investment and economic planning and performance and strengthened the national industries, making a strong base for a free economy by ensuring diversity in sources of income and the exploitation of capital, creating an ideal environment to invest, boosted by formulation of legislation that supports investment security and facilitates processes while ensuring freedom of transferring capital.

"The UAE enjoys infrastructure and development in all services in accordance with international standards, and is linked through networks of communication with countries of the world. Also, it has a very advantageous geographical location that has made it a strong competitor for many countries and an attractive place for investors.

"In the context of scientific research and excellence, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid launched the Emirates Space Agency project. The Mars probe will be the first step by the Arab Islamic world in entering the era of space exploration, led by an Emirati team, as part of our ambitions to build local scientific capabilities in the field of outer space exploration, thus emphasising the State's strategies in the field of scientific research and space sciences, and his interest in the creation of scientific cadres in this area and including that as part of the Government's priorities. The Emirati probe to Mars is expected to be launched in 2021 to coincide with the fiftieth anniversary of the establishment of the UAE.

"The UAE’s efforts to safeguard the interests of its citizens and meeting their needs have been demonstrated through field visits carried out by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, following in his footsteps.  Sheikh Mohamed adopted this responsibility according to a scheduled programme to meet the citizens across the country to acquaint himself with their needs and to review what has been achieved through initiatives in all areas, as well as to include these appropriately in the plans and programmes of the State, whether in the general budget of the country or through the initiatives of Sheikh Khalifa.

"The visits of Sheikh Mohamed were appreciated by all citizens, and on all occasions they extended their thanks and appreciation to him for his humanitarian initiatives and visits, thanking him for sharing their social occasions, as well as expressing joy at meeting with him.

"The State has boosted the integration of its constitutional powers and performance through the integration between the governments and the Federal National Council (FNC).
 
"During his opening of the fourth ordinary session of the 15th legislative chapter, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum expressed his pride at the FNC's role, whose members are considered part of the national team. Their advice is an essential element in the formulation of government policy, and the support of the wise leadership to the FNC by giving it more powers has contributed to the development of government performance and strengthening legislation, as well as evaluation of services programmes.

"Sheikh Mohammed also praised the parliamentary diplomacy carried out by the members of the Federal National Council within the framework of their participation, which is complementary to the political role of the State and supports its political positions, emphasising its rights and supporting its reports in various fields.

"The interest of our wise leadership in the empowerment of Emirati women had a significant impact in the political, administrative, social and developmental participation in all areas as the women are an active element in the community.

"Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the UAE, reinforced women's roles through her support for all programmes and initiatives that promote women's status and confirm the leadership’s faith and keenness that the women assume leading positions and contribute towards building a modern state, as well as participate in all forums that promote the status of women and faith in their leading role in all fields.

"Our wise leadership also issued laws and legislations which enhance the Emirati woman's position and ensure her future, whether in the context of practical participation or through social security, and to meet all her needs and also to preserve her rights.

"In conclusion, I would like to extend my deepest congratulations to the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members, Rulers of the Emirates,  General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and to Their Highnesses the Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers, and pray to Allah Almighty to save the leader of our march and may Allah help us to serve our country and its people, " concluded Sheikh Saud bin Rashid.